How to Help End Sexual Exploitation

Sept. 16, 2009

By AUDE SOICHET via

Aude Soichet/ABC News

Cambodia has long been a top destination for pedophiles from the United States and all over the world, according to law enforcement authorities and humanitarian NGOs. As featured on "Nightline," a number of organizations are involved in a coordinated international crackdown called "Operation Twisted Traveler." It involves Cambodian police, the FBI, ICE, and international law enforcement in an effort to identify suspected pedophiles.

Learn more about organizations working to crack down on suspected pedophiles in Cambodia and how to help provide for children rescued from sexual exploitation.

APLE: Featured in our story and heralded as "heroes" by the U.S. embassy, APLE (Action For Children) -- a non-governmental organization based in Cambodia -- agents conduct undercover investigations, gather intelligence and collect evidence leading to the prosecution of suspected pedophiles. APLE lawyers work to provide legal support to child victims of sexual exploitation and bring judicial accountability to their perpetrators. Further, APLE's social workers partner with other organizations to provide aid and aftercare services to victims. CLICK HERE to visit their Web site.

International Justice Mission: IJM is a human rights agency that brings freedom and justice to victims of sex trafficking, slavery and other forms of violent oppression. On the frontlines in 13 counties, IJM investigators, aftercare professionals and lawyers work with local officials to ensure immediate rescue for victims, just prosecutions for perpetrators and training and support so that public justice systems protect the poor from violence. CLICK HERE to visit their Web site.

Agape Restoration Center: Featured in our story, Agape Restoration Center (ARC) works directly with victims providing rehabilitation, restoration and transitional living for girls rescued from sex trafficking in Cambodia. It's the goal of ARC's professional and loving Cambodian staff to return hope for the future to each girl entrusted to their care, while preparing her for successful reintegration into society by providing for her physical, psychosocial, education, vocational and spiritual needs. CLICK HERE to visit their Web site.

Hagar Cambodia: One of the few shelters to take in both girls and boys rescued from sexual exploitation, Hagar provides critical crisis care to children, including a safe and secure shelter, food, clothing, education and intensive counseling and therapy. CLICK HERE to visit the group's Web site.

World Vision Cambodia: World Vision offers a refuge and care to survivors of sexual violence and exploitation through shelters and group homes, education, counseling and the teaching of skills. CLICK HERE to visit their Web site.